Common name: Tentacled blenny

Scientific name: Parablennius tentacularis (Brünnich, 1768)
A blenny in it's natural habitatClose-up image of a blenny hiding behind red sponge
Blenny Parablennius tentacularisTentacled blenny profile

General information

The Mediterranean Rainbow Wrasse, also known as the Tentacled Blenny, is a small, colorful fish that is a popular choice for marine aquariums. Its scientific name is Parablennius tentacularis, and it is known for its distinctive tentacles above the eyes and vibrant coloration. This species is often appreciated for its active behavior and personality in the aquarium setting.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
18 to 24 °C (64 to 75 °F)
Acidity
pH 8 to 8.4
Average size
13 cm (5″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Prefers rockwork with hiding spots.
Diet
Omnivore Varied diet including algae and small inverts.
Social
Solo Can be territorial, best kept alone.
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive May nip at slow-moving fish.
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Blennies
    Blenniidae
  6. Genus
    Blennies
    Parablennius
  7. Species
    Tentacled blenny
    Parablennius tentacularis (Brünnich, 1768)
  8. Synonyms
    Blennius tentacularis Brünnich, 1768
    Blennius tentacularis rhodensis Kähsbauer, 1965

Care

The Tentacled Blenny is a hardy species that adapts well to life in captivity. It requires an aquarium with plenty of rockwork and hiding places to feel secure. This species is an omnivore and will accept a variety of foods including frozen and live meaty foods, as well as some vegetable matter. It is important to maintain high water quality and stable parameters to keep these fish healthy.

Reproduction

In the wild, Tentacled Blennies are oviparous, with males often guarding and aerating the eggs until they hatch. Breeding them in captivity can be challenging, and hobbyists aiming to breed them should provide a separate breeding tank with optimal conditions.

Habitat

Parablennius tentacularis is native to the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic Ocean. It is commonly found in shallow, rocky coastal areas where it can hide among the crevices. This species is well-suited to the rocky environment of a reef aquarium.